The Vancouver Canucks centre is expected to be a fourth-line fixture with Tanner Glass and the demoted Mikael Samuelsson in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinal against the Nashville Predators. It will be the fifth postseason appearance for Hodgson and he’s a lot more excited about it than the troubled Samuelsson.

“However I can help, I’ll be ready. I’m excited,” said Hodgson, who has one playoff assist. “We’re against a good offensive team. They have a great goaltender [Pekka Riinne]. He’s a big guy and really athletic, so obviously lots of shots and traffic and make sure we stick around for the rebounds.”

Hodgson seemed just as pumped about playing with Samuelsson, a 2008 Stanley Cup champion, as helping to turn the series tide.

“It’s a real honour to play on this team, but with a guy with winning a Stanley Cup and paying with him, I’m really looking forward to it,” added Hodgson. “I just have to play the same way. Bring some energy. That’s the way I’ve played my whole life. I’m not too complicated, but at the same time, I’m put in a system where you can learn from Henrik and Daniel Sedin.”

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